the business for their mutual benefit.
A significant number of professionals produce crafts in the United States. But they often have difficulty realizing maximum return for their production.

Cooperatives
have long been the organizational device
for helping people meet
problems

beyond
their individual capabilities. While the

cooperative
approach does not necessarily

assure success, it does provide an opportunity to

bring
together needed resources to overcome

many
problems.

Like
the sole proprietorship, partnership,

or
investor -owned corporation, a cooperative

must operate as a business if it is to succeed.

Craft cooperatives, guilds, or informalorganizations have been of major importance
in solving marketing problems faced by crafters.

Lack of market contact. Craft producers
who live in isolated rural areas often
have limited access to markets. They are
often forced to accept whatever price is
offered for their craft products. Isolation
may also create a lack of awareness of
what is marketable in metropolitan areas.
Lack of access to supply sources.
Production of quality crafts requires the
use of quality supplies. The same isolation
that separates many craft producers
from potential markets also restricts the
availability of supplies needed to produce craft products.

Craft Cooperative Activities

The needs of craftspeople depend on location,
the type of craft produced, skill levels, and
other factors. A cooperative’s membership must
determine what is needed and how to meet
those needs. In general, cooperatives have found
it advantageous to assist in such areas as marketing,
production assistance, and obtaining technical
assistance for producers. A comprehensive
program to assist members offers the greatest
potential for success.
Marketing—Numerous potential craft markets
go untapped because producers are either
unaware they exist or
are unable, individually, to
supply that market. A craft cooperative can link
the
production capabilities of its members with a
wide array of markets. Successful
linkage not
only increases the producer ’s income, but
benefits the buyer.

How
to find Craft Cooperatives:

To
find the Craft Cooperative in your area check with your state office or
you can purchase our Report #33 Craft Cooperatives in the US